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BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

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BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

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This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe combines two American comfort food favorites into one irresistible dish. Imagine tender pieces of smoky barbecue chicken nestled in rich, creamy mac and cheese, topped with a buttery breadcrumb crust that’s baked to golden perfection. It’s the perfect meal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or family gatherings when you want something hearty, satisfying, and full of flavor.

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This dish is a crowd-pleaser that brings together the sweetness of BBQ sauce with the creaminess of homemade mac and cheese. Best of all, it’s easy to make and can be customized to suit your family’s taste preferences. Whether baked or served straight from the stovetop, every bite delivers a balance of smoky, cheesy, and savory goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Two classics in one – Enjoy the best of barbecue chicken and mac and cheese in a single dish.
  • Perfect comfort food – Rich, creamy, cheesy, and slightly smoky, this recipe hits all the right notes.
  • Family-friendly – A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.
  • Easy to prepare ahead – Great for meal prep or make-ahead dinners.
  • Customizable – Adjust the cheese blend, spice level, or BBQ sauce flavor to suit your tastes.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s a closer look at what makes this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese truly special:

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  • Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken cubes provide lean protein and soak up the BBQ sauce beautifully.
  • Elbow Macaroni: The classic choice for mac and cheese — holds the creamy sauce perfectly.
  • Butter and Flour: Combined to create a roux, forming the base of the rich cheese sauce.
  • Milk: Whole milk gives the sauce its velvety, creamy texture.
  • Cheese Trio: Cheddar for sharpness, Monterey Jack for smooth melt, and Gruyere for depth and richness.
  • BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade blend for that sweet-smoky tang.
  • Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika add warmth and flavor.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs: Create a crispy, buttery topping when baked.
  • Bacon & Parsley: Optional garnishes that enhance texture and flavor.

Tips and Tricks

  • Grate your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
  • Avoid overcooking the pasta: Slightly undercook the macaroni before mixing it with the cheese sauce.
  • Add a creamy boost: Stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or sour cream for extra creaminess.
  • Layer for flavor: Alternate layers of mac and cheese with BBQ chicken for even flavor distribution.
  • Use a cast iron skillet: It helps create crispy edges and keeps the dish warm longer.

Variations and Customizations

  1. Spicy BBQ Mac and Cheese: Add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or jalapeños for a fiery twist.
  2. Smoky Bacon Version: Mix cooked, crumbled bacon directly into the mac for extra flavor.
  3. Veggie Boost: Add broccoli florets, corn, or peas to sneak in some vegetables.
  4. Different Cheese Blends: Try Gouda, Havarti, or smoked provolone for unique flavor profiles.
  5. Pulled Pork Alternative: Substitute shredded BBQ pork or brisket for the chicken for a Southern BBQ flair.

Pairing Suggestions

This dish pairs perfectly with a range of sides and beverages:

  • Sides: Garlic bread, green salad, baked beans, or roasted vegetables.
  • Drinks: Sweet iced tea, lemonade, or a light craft beer.
  • Dessert Ideas: Finish the meal with apple cobbler, banana pudding, or chocolate brownies for the ultimate comfort meal.

Storage Instructions

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes, or in the microwave in short bursts with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
  • Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Popular Questions

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare both the mac and cheese and BBQ chicken up to one day ahead. Combine and bake before serving.

2. What BBQ sauce works best?
A smoky or honey-style BBQ sauce balances perfectly with the creamy cheese sauce.

3. Can I skip the oven step?
Absolutely. If you prefer a creamier stovetop version, skip the baking and serve immediately.

4. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, it’s a great time-saver. Shred and toss it in BBQ sauce before mixing with the mac and cheese.

5. How can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Caroline

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

This rich and smoky BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese combines tender chunks of BBQ chicken with a creamy three-cheese sauce and golden panko topping. The perfect blend of comfort food and backyard barbecue flavor!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 10 portions
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, BBQ
Calories: 640
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter
  • 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.25 tsp nutmeg (optional)
  • 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (optional)
  • 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1.5 cups BBQ sauce
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 0.25 cup melted butter
  • 0.25 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 0.25 cup cooked, crumbled bacon

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • saucepan or Dutch oven
  • mixing bowls
  • whisk
  • 9×13-inch baking dish (if baking)

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut chicken into cubes and season with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook in a skillet until browned and cooked through (7–10 minutes). Stir in BBQ sauce and simmer briefly.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Boil macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large pot, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Slowly add milk while whisking until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in seasonings and cheese until melted.
  4. Combine: Mix cooked macaroni with cheese sauce. Fold in BBQ chicken.
  5. Bake (Optional): Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish. Combine panko and melted butter; sprinkle on top with bacon and parsley. Bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated cheese for the best texture and flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the macaroni; it will continue cooking when baked.
  • For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes after baking.
  • Customize the flavor by trying different BBQ sauces or adding a touch of hot sauce for spice.

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